Data Collection (2 Weeks)

The foundation of any solar PV project begins with comprehensive data collection. We require 12 months of half-hourly demand data, a copy of your most recent electricity bill, and confirmation of the building(s) or land in question. This information enables us to determine the optimal system size based on your organisation's sustainability objectives—whether for cost savings, energy resilience, or carbon footprint reduction.

By adopting solar energy, businesses can significantly lower emissions, contribute to a greener energy grid, and align with global sustainability initiatives.

Preliminary Proposal / Initial viability (1 Week)

Following data analysis, we will develop a preliminary proposal, which is 80% financial and 20% technical, covering:

• System size and approximate layout
• Projected energy output
• Solar power utilisation
• Capital costs and financing options
• Estimated cost savings
• Operational expenses
• Payback period/Return on investment
• Carbon reduction potential

At this stage, our assessment is primarily based on data analytics and satellite imagery. However, the proposal provides sufficient detail to identify potential challenges before substantial resources are allocated. It also offers a preliminary evaluation of the sustainability benefits your organisation can achieve through solar energy integration.

Full Technical Survey – Investment Time (2-4 Weeks)

If the preliminary proposal is promising, the next step involves a full technical survey to assess the feasibility of the proposed location. Our team will conduct a site visit to evaluate all relevant factors, including:

• Grid network application
• Independent structural assessment
• Roof condition analysis
• Scaffold and access planning
• Electrical integration assessment
• Health and safety compliance review

In most cases, a single visit is sufficient, though additional assessments may be required for complex installations or evolving project scopes. This survey ensures the solar array is installed safely and efficiently, optimising energy production while adhering to structural and regulatory standards.

Formal Proposal (1 Week)

Following the technical survey, we will present a formal proposal. This document expands on the preliminary findings, offering precise details on system design, energy output, scaffold and access arrangements, and project timelines. It will also outline any anticipated site disruptions and planned power outages, ensuring that sustainability and operational efficiency remain central to the project.

Planning Permission/Permitted Development (Variable on Local Authority) (est 4 Weeks)

Once the formal proposal is approved and the supply contract is signed, we will commence the planning approval process. Solar PV systems not only reduce dependence on fossil fuels but also contribute to national and global sustainability goals. Our team will navigate the regulatory landscape to ensure full compliance with environmental requirements and industry best practices.

Project Delivery (Depend on Job Size)

With all necessary approvals secured, we proceed with installation. Our team works closely with your staff to minimise disruption and ensure seamless integration into your operations. Throughout the build, we may capture progress footage using drone technology, documenting your journey towards a sustainable energy future.

Handover

Once the system is operational and has been running for several weeks, we will facilitate a structured handover, including:

• Emergency shutdown and restart procedures
• System operation guidance
• Access to the online monitoring portal for real-time performance tracking

Most clients opt for automated monthly reports, which can be customised to include:

• System output
• Solar energy consumption
• Grid export levels

Monitoring energy performance allows businesses to further enhance their sustainability initiatives while optimising the efficiency of their solar investment.

Asset Management

Most clients prefer their solar installations to integrate seamlessly into their operations with minimal oversight.

To facilitate this, we offer tailored operations and maintenance packages, allowing Seven Electrical to oversee system performance while you focus on core business activities. Our packages range from an annual system inspection (‘WOF’) to full-scale monitoring with proactive interventions should performance deviations arise.

As part of the Aotea Group, which has deployed over 500 solar PV systems nationwide, we benchmark your system's efficiency against similar installations, ensuring consistent environmental and financial returns.

Annual Reviews

We are committed to long-term collaboration to maximise the environmental and financial benefits of your investment. Our annual reviews assess system performance against initial projections and identify opportunities for enhanced efficiency and sustainability.

For example, our review with Unit 1 Gracefield Road, Lower Hutt, demonstrated that their system exceeded performance expectations by 4%, reinforcing the potential for ongoing sustainability gains. These evaluations ensure continuous optimisation while reaffirming our shared dedication to a cleaner, greener future.